Joining a health club usually involves signing a membership contract
and paying dues and fees. In the past, some studios went out of business
after collecting thousands of dollars in prepaid membership dues. Now,
Florida law requires most health studios to register with the Florida Department
of Agriculture and Consumer Services and to post a bond for a limited time.
This bond can be used to repay consumers whose health studios go out of
business and do not provide an alternate facility of equal quality within
5 driving miles.

Health studios must post prominently at the registration or front desk
their proof of registration certificate provided by the Department of Agriculture
and Consumer Services and include the registration number in all printed
advertisements, contracts and publications.

If long-term memberships are offered, the contract must contain the
following:

disclosure that the contract can be cancelled by giving written notice
within 3 business days, excluding weekends and legal holidays;

a provision that if a member dies or becomes physically unable to use
the facility, the contract can be cancelled and a refund issued for the
unused time;

disclosure that the contract may not obligate the consumer for a period
longer than 3 years, although it may provide for annual renewal;

if the studio is not required to post a bond, the contract must include
a disclosure statement advising the buyer of that fact and of the risks
of paying for more than 1 month in advance.

to determine whether a health club is registered with the Florida Department of Agriculture and
Consumer Services, or whether any complaints have been filed against the business, call 1-800-HELP-FLA or (850)488-2221.